Fire Explorer Program

The Skokie Fire Explorer program provides young adults who have an interest in the fire service an opportunity to become familiar with the career opportunities available in the fire service.

Through hands-on and classroom instruction, explorers are taught the basic skills of firefighting and EMS. 

The leadership experience, self-confidence, and communication skills acquired through this program will benefit participants not only in fire service careers, but in all future endeavors.

Fire Explorers wear a uniform and are provided with turn-out gear and other safety clothing. The program is designed to encourage accountability, safety, communication, teamwork, fitness and the development of leadership skills.

During the program, participants are given the opportunity to attend the Illinois Fire Service Institute's Explorer Candidate Weekend in Champaign, Illinois.

Basic Requirements

• 14 to 20 years of age
• Maintain a 2.0 grade point average in school
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend directions and training materials in English
• Ability to work as a team member
• The program meets twice per month (one weeknight, one Saturday morning) during the year. Participants commit to participating for the entire year.

Hands-on Exercises Include

• Fire service hose work
• Ladder work of all kinds
• Breathing apparatus
• Fire streams & water supply
• Ventilation & forcible entry
• Firefighter search & rescue
• Ropes & knots
• Rapid Intervention Team
• Structural fire fighting under controlled fire conditions in SFD facilities.

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